The GoTenna Mesh is a useful tool that creates a private mesh network for long-range communication and GPS access where cellular connectivity isn't available.

You can't always rely on cellular connectivity. Networks can go down or become too congested, and there are areas that just flat-out lack service. In each of these instances, the GoTenna Mesh is a useful alternative. Starting at $179 for a two-pack, the Mesh is a stick-like device that lets you create a private network to relay text and other messages with your cell phone. Messages can be transmitted farther than the with the original GoTenna thanks to mesh technology that expands your reach beyond the point-to-point range. I spent some time testing one out in a park in Brooklyn, New York, and have some first impressions.

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How It Works

Unlike the original GoTenna, which is limited to person-to-person communication, the Mesh lets you operate across an entire network consisting of everyone who owns the device. To achieve this the Mesh operates on the 902-928MHz band in North America, as opposed to the original, which uses Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS).

Using this spectrum allows GoTenna to set up a long-range mesh network via store and forward, something prohibited by FCC regulations over MURS. Basically, it means that each GoTenna Mesh can communicate not only with one another, but act as a relay to extend range. So if you have three (or more) people in your network and two of them are within range of each other, but the third person is too far to be reached directly by the first, the Mesh can use the person in the middle as a relay point to help your message get delivered.

Design and Features

The Mesh is a two-tone stick with a colorful adjustable silicone attachment strap available in light blue, green, orange, and purple. The strap lets you attach the Mesh to your backpack, trees, a fence, or even a drone. The top half of the stick is textured polycarbonate containing the antennae, while the bottom has a sleek gray aluminum finish. In between the two halves sits a rectangular LED notification light that blinks white to show when the GoTenna is activated.

At 4.2 by 1.3 by 0.9 inches (HWD) and 1.7 ounces, the Mesh is a bit squatter than the original GoTenna (5.9 by 1.0 by 0.5 inches, 1.8 ounces). The biggest difference is the removal of the extendable antenna used for activating the orignal model. With the Mesh, all you have to do to is press the rubber power button that sits above the flap covering the micro USB charging port on the side (the battery is said to last 24 hours).

Like the original, the Mesh is resistant to dust and water and can withstand a fair amount of abuse, but it doesn't carry an official protection rating.

Field Test

I did some preliminary testing in Prospect Park, with five other Mesh users scattered thoughout the area. Transmission range varies depending on your surroundings. In a city you might be able to reach another user a few blocks away, while in a more open area you can reach one or more miles. Of course, having additional users in the middle will help extend your reach, no matter where you are.

All messages are encrypted end-to-end, and you can choose whether your messages are reaching a particular individual, a group of people, or all Mesh users nearby. Someone serving as a relay won't be able to read your messages. You're also not limited to just text messages. You can send your location data along with a map to help you meet up with people you're traveling with. A connection provides you with GPS access, as well. Picture messages and voice calls aren't supported, however.

After attaching the Mesh to my bag and connecting it to my phone via Bluetooth, I was able to directly send a message to the closest Mesh user nearby. There were two other Mesh devices also within line of sight—one down the block and one in a subway station entrance—and two farther away in the park. I was able to direct message the other two Mesh devices in my line of sight. But the ones in the park were out of range for me.

That's where the mesh network capabilites kick in. The Mesh automatically chooses the best way to route your message, picking the one with the fewest hops across other devices. To reach the Mesh user farthest from me, my messaged hopped through two other users before reaching its destination, for a total of three hops. It supports up to four, at launch.

That means the GoTenna Mesh can allow for communication between two users separated by a number of miles, as long as there are other users in between who can act as relays. During the course of my testing it worked well on a fairly busy street, in the subway station, and in the park, though as mentioned range will vary depending on your elevation, nearby buildings, and passing vehicles.

I need to spend some more time with the GoTenna Mesh before giving it a rating, but so far it looks promising. Mesh technology allows you to expand your reach much farther than the original, and the hand off between devices happens seamlessly. It's a bit pricier than the original, but if you're in a pinch without cellular service, that extra range can certainly be worth it.

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About the Author

Ajay Kumar is PCMag's Analyst obsessed with all things mobile. Ajay reviews phones, tablets, accessories, and just about any other gadget that can be carried around with you. In his spare time he games on the rig he built himself, collects Nintendo amiibos, and tries his hand at publishing a novel. Follow Ajay on Twitter @Ajay_H_Kumar.

GoTenna Mesh

GoTenna Mesh

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